70 Axles issues...... confused

[jetfixr]

I decide to start working on the old truck again. One thing I always hated was that it was tough to find nice rims for a 6 lug. So I thought about doing a 5 lug conversion. Just my luck, I guess they changed the width of the rear-end mid-year in 1970. So I am not even sure what rear-end I have. I know it is a posi-traction read-end, which I would like to stick with. I have heard folks say that later model axles would slide right in, easy fix. Without knowing exactly what I have or exactly what type of donor vehicle I need to be looking for it is kinda tough. Does anyone know how might be able to ID the read-end and what might be the possible donors? I know Early Classic can hook me up with the conversion axles and new rear drums but I am looking at a bill of about $500 if I go that route. I would much rather put that money toward the rims. Thanks

[lolife99]

Early '70 rearend is 55-1/2" backing plate to backing plate.
(will require conversion axles to go to 5-lug)

Late '70 rearend is 57" backing plate to backing plate.
(Can use the stock 71-72 axles to switch to 5-lug)

[67c10rustbuket]

What he said x2

I put 71 axles in my wide 70 housing. I found the easiest way to measure is from the truck arm mount pad out to the drum backing plate. It is difficult to measure around the diff especially laying on your back all by yourself.

[camaney]

can the 73's and up be use?

[67c10rustbuket]

Originally Posted by camaney

can the 73's and up be use?

I have heard that they can. let me see .........

well I cant find it on here but on Mosers website shows their stock replacement axles show they are for 1970- 1981 12 bolt so id say yes.

check the moser link here

[67c10rustbuket]

assuming thats a 12 bolt of course...

[camaney]

thanks rustbucket